"The changes were necessary as the fashion and luxury sectors are among the first to feel the impact of shifting consumer spending. Retailers like Selfridges have noted the challenges, especially after the removal of tax-free shopping for tourists, which made the UK less attractive for wealthy visitors. US and Asian shoppers now tend to buy luxury items in European cities like Paris and Milan instead of London."
"One key initiative is doubling investment in LFW's guest programme to attract more international designers, including emerging markets. This area used to receive little focus, but now similar reforms are happening across various fashion events. Some, like Moscow Fashion Week, have long prioritized internationalization and multicultural representation. In September, designers from 13 different countries took part, including the USA, Spain, China, India, Turkey, South Africa, and Brazil."
Caroline Rush stepped down in mid-2025 and Laura Weir became director of the British Fashion Council. She increased scholarship funding, waived showcasing fees within the main calendar, and doubled investment in London Fashion Week's guest programme to attract more international talent. Those changes led to surging interest and an 18% rise in participating designers at the September 2025 edition. The fashion and luxury sectors face shifting consumer spending and reduced tourist tax-free shopping, which has pushed wealthy buyers toward Paris and Milan. The strategy emphasizes internationalization, drawing designers from 13 countries and mirroring successful reforms at other fashion weeks.
Read at London Business News | Londonlovesbusiness.com
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